Equine Nutrition: Feeding Timothy Hay and Forage Selection

Timothy hay (Phleum pratense) is a cool-season grass forage widely fed to horses across North America and Europe. For horse owners, veterinary students, veterinary technicians, and veterinary professionals, understanding the nutritional profile of timothy hay, how to assess its quality, and how to balance it with concentrates is essential for maintaining equine health. This article provides a practical framework for selecting timothy hay, evaluating its nutrient content, and integrating it into feeding programs across different life stages and health conditions. The guidance here is educational and observational in nature. It does not replace a veterinary nutritionist's assessment or a veterinarian's diagnosis and treatment plan.

At a Glance: Timothy Hay and Forage Selection

This table summarizes general categories. Actual nutrient values vary with harvest maturity, soil fertility, drying conditions, and storage. Laboratory analysis of each hay lot is the only reliable way to know its nutrient content.

Nutritional Value of Timothy Hay for Horses

Timothy hay provides the fiber foundation of many equine diets. Horses are hindgut fermenters, and forage fiber supports microbial fermentation in the cecum and colon. The fiber fraction of timothy hay, measured as neutral detergent fiber (NDF), influences intake and digestibility. Research on voluntary intake and digestibility of timothy hay in horses found that mature stalled Thoroughbred geldings consumed timothy hay readily and that apparent dry matter digestibility was greater for timothy hay compared with low-alkaloid reed canarygrass hay by 9.6% [3]. The same study reported that timothy hay had a crude protein concentration of 14.4% and a calcium to phosphorus ratio of 1.6 to 1, which is considered desirable for horses [3].

Timothy hay is a grass forage, so its protein content is generally lower than that of legumes such as alfalfa. A comparison of short-cutting cycle, high temperature-dried alfalfa with timothy hay in Thoroughbred horses found that the digestibilities of organic matter, energy, and crude protein were significantly higher for alfalfa than for timothy hay [6]. The digestibility coefficients for timothy hay in that study were 0.45 for organic matter, 0.43 for energy, and 0.36 for crude protein [6]. These values indicate that timothy hay is a moderate-quality forage that suits many adult horses but may not support high production demands without supplementation.

The protein quality of timothy hay also matters. Current equine protein requirements are based on crude protein content, but the distribution of protein between cell contents and cell wall affects foregut digestion [13]. Neutral detergent soluble crude protein is the readily digestible protein fraction available to meet equine protein requirements, and updated models use this fraction to quantify pre-cecal digestible crude protein [13]. For practical purposes, this means that the crude protein value of timothy hay alone does not tell the full story. Horses digest the soluble protein fraction more completely than the fiber-bound protein, so hay with the same crude protein but different fiber content can deliver different amounts of usable protein.

Fiber Digestibility and Hindgut Function

The fiber in timothy hay is fermented in the hindgut to produce volatile fatty acids that supply a portion of the horse's energy. Research comparing digestion of timothy fibre across species has documented how equines process this forage component [24]. The retention of digesta in the hindgut influences how completely fiber is fermented. Studies measuring liquid and solid digesta retention in equines given timothy hay have characterized passage dynamics that affect nutrient extraction [23]. Horses digest soluble fiber fractions more completely than insoluble fractions. Research on individual carbohydrate fractions found that the apparent total tract digestibility of soluble non-cellulosic polysaccharides was above 0.8, which was 60% higher than for the insoluble non-cellulosic polysaccharide fraction [10]. This means that the soluble fiber in timothy hay contributes more to energy supply than the insoluble fiber, and that management practices which support hindgut fermentation will improve the value of the forage.

Mineral Content and Supplementation Needs

Timothy hay provides several essential minerals but has predictable gaps. A study of mature stalled Thoroughbred geldings found that timothy hay met the minimum requirements for digestible energy, crude protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and manganese for horses at maintenance and averaging 550 kg of body weight [3]. The same study noted that the hay did not meet minimum requirements for copper, zinc, and sodium [3]. This finding highlights a common limitation of grass hays. Even good-quality timothy hay may require mineral supplementation to meet all trace mineral requirements.

The calcium to phosphorus ratio in timothy hay is generally favorable. The study cited above reported a ratio of 1.6 to 1, which supports bone health and mineral balance [3]. Compare this with low-alkaloid reed canarygrass hay, which had a ratio of 0.8 to 1 in the same study [3]. The more desirable calcium to phosphorus ratio in timothy hay is one reason it remains a popular choice for horse owners.

Forage Selection Guide Based on Horse Life Stage and Health Status

Adult Horses at Maintenance

Adult horses at maintenance require a diet that provides adequate energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals without promoting excessive weight gain. Timothy hay is a suitable base forage for this group. A study of mature stalled Thoroughbred geldings found that timothy hay met the minimum requirements for digestible energy, crude protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and manganese for horses at maintenance and averaging 550 kg of body weight [3]. The same study noted that the hay did not meet minimum requirements for copper, zinc, and sodium [3]. This finding highlights a common limitation of grass hays. Even good-quality timothy hay may require mineral supplementation to meet all trace mineral requirements.

For adult horses at maintenance, feed timothy hay at 1.5% to 2% of body weight on a dry matter basis per day. A 500 kg horse would receive 7.5 to 10 kg of hay dry matter daily. Adjust the amount based on body condition score, which should be assessed monthly. Horses that maintain a body condition score of 5 on a 1 to 9 scale are receiving adequate energy. Horses that gain or lose condition require adjustment of hay amount or concentrate supplementation.

Growing Horses

Growing horses have higher protein and mineral requirements than adult horses at maintenance. Timothy hay alone may not meet these requirements. A study of pregnant mares found that timothy hay with 4.1% crude protein did not meet crude protein requirements for mares [5]. While that timothy hay was unusually low in protein, the finding illustrates that grass hays vary widely and may be inadequate for high-demand life stages.

For weanlings and yearlings, consider a timothy-alfalfa mix or supplement timothy hay with a concentrate formulated for growth. The concentrate should provide additional protein, calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals. Monitor growth rates with regular weight measurements and body condition scoring. Consult a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to formulate a ration that meets the specific needs of the growing horse.

Lactating Mares

Lactation places high demands on the mare for energy, protein, calcium, and phosphorus. Timothy hay can be part of the ration, but it may need to be combined with higher-quality forages or concentrates. A study of gestating and lactating Quarter Horse mares fed Matua bromegrass hay or alfalfa hay found that forage type did not affect intake, gestation length, birth weight, foal weight gain, day of first postpartum ovulation, cycles per conception, or pregnancy rate at 70 days [5]. This finding suggests that a variety of forage types can support reproduction and lactation when the total ration meets nutrient requirements.

For lactating mares, offer free-choice hay or feed at 2% to 2.5% of body weight on a dry matter basis. Combine timothy hay with a legume hay or a concentrate designed for lactation. Monitor the mare's body condition and the foal's growth rate. Mares that lose condition despite adequate feed intake may require increased concentrate or a higher-quality forage.

Performance Horses

Performance horses have elevated energy requirements that may exceed what timothy hay alone can provide. The glycemic response to forage and concentrate feeds is relevant for performance horses. A study of Standardbred racehorses found that acute glycemic response was not influenced by soaking or steaming hay [4]. The same study found that soaked hay had lower concentrations of soluble protein, nonstructural carbohydrates, and potassium compared with the same dry hay [4]. For performance horses, this means that hay processing methods can alter nutrient content without changing the glycemic response.

For performance horses, feed timothy hay at 1.5% to 2% of body weight on a dry matter basis and add concentrates to meet additional energy demands. The amount and type of concentrate depend on the intensity and duration of exercise. A study of dietary fiber composition in horses found that diets high in soluble fiber resulted in stable and constant plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, while cereal grain diets produced the greatest variations in glycaemic and insulinaemic responses [7]. This finding supports the practice of maintaining a forage base and adding concentrates gradually to minimize metabolic disturbances.

Easy Keepers and Horses Prone to Obesity

Horses that maintain weight easily or are prone to obesity require restricted energy intake. Full-bloom timothy hay, which is higher in fiber and lower in digestible energy, may suit these horses. The lower digestibility of mature timothy hay reduces energy availability. However, restrict intake carefully. Horses need a minimum amount of forage to maintain gastrointestinal health and satisfy chewing behavior.

For easy keepers, feed timothy hay at 1.5% of body weight on a dry matter basis or less, depending on body condition. Use slow-feeder nets or multiple small meals to extend eating time. Monitor body condition score monthly and adjust intake to maintain a score of 4 to 5. Horses that lose too much condition on restricted hay may need a lower-calorie balancer pellet to provide protein and minerals without excess energy.

Horses with Metabolic Conditions

Horses with insulin dysregulation or equine metabolic syndrome require diets low in nonstructural carbohydrates. Timothy hay is generally lower in nonstructural carbohydrates than many other forages, but values vary with harvest time and growing conditions. Soaking hay can reduce nonstructural carbohydrate content. A study found that soaked, but not steamed, hay had lower concentrations of soluble protein, nonstructural carbohydrates, and potassium compared with the same dry hay [4].

For horses with metabolic conditions, select timothy hay that has been tested for nonstructural carbohydrates. Soak hay for 30 minutes before feeding to reduce water-soluble carbohydrates, but be aware that soaking also removes some minerals and soluble protein [4]. Work with a veterinarian to develop a feeding plan that manages nonstructural carbohydrate intake while meeting protein, vitamin, and mineral requirements.

Horses with Respiratory Conditions

Hay is a major source of respirable dust and airborne microorganisms in stables and is a relevant risk factor for equine asthma [17]. A study of hay produced on intensively and extensively managed grasslands in Switzerland found that intensively managed, barn-dried hay showed the lowest airborne contamination, while extensively managed, field-dried samples exhibited markedly higher particulate matter and microbial load [17]. Selecting hay with lower dust and microbial content may reduce airborne contaminants in stables and should be considered in preventive and therapeutic strategies for equine respiratory health [17].

For horses with respiratory conditions, choose barn-dried hay from intensively managed grasslands when possible. Soaking or steaming hay before feeding can reduce respirable dust particles, but these methods may result in variable nutrient losses [4]. Feed hay from the floor or use a low-dust feeder to reduce the horse's exposure to airborne particles. Consult a veterinarian for horses with diagnosed respiratory disease.

Hay Quality Assessment: A Practical Checklist

Assessing hay quality before purchase or feeding is a critical skill for horse owners and professionals. Use this checklist to evaluate timothy hay lots.

Visual Inspection

Examine the hay for color, leaf content, and foreign material. Good-quality timothy hay has a green color, which indicates that it was harvested at an appropriate maturity and cured without excessive weathering. Brown or yellow hay may have been rained on or harvested too late. Leaf content matters because leaves contain more protein and digestible nutrients than stems. Timothy hay should have a high proportion of leaves relative to stems. Check for weeds, mold, dust, and foreign objects such as wire or plastic. Discard hay with visible mold, which can cause respiratory and digestive problems.

Smell and Feel

Good-quality hay has a sweet, fresh smell. Musty or fermented odors indicate mold or poor curing. Feel the hay for moisture content. Hay that feels damp or warm may be at risk for spontaneous combustion or mold growth. Hay that feels brittle and dusty may be over-cured and have lost leaves and nutrients.

Laboratory Analysis

Visual inspection cannot determine nutrient content. Submit a representative sample to a forage testing laboratory for analysis. Request analysis of dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, calcium, phosphorus, and nonstructural carbohydrates. For horses with metabolic conditions, request water-soluble carbohydrate analysis. Use the laboratory results to formulate the ration and determine whether mineral supplementation is needed.

Sourcing and Storage

Buy hay from a reputable grower who can provide information about harvest date, cutting, and storage conditions. First-cut timothy hay is harvested in late spring and tends to be higher in fiber. Second and third cuttings are harvested later in the season and tend to be higher in protein and lower in fiber. Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated barn or under cover with good drainage. Keep hay off the ground and away from moisture to prevent mold growth.

Balancing Timothy Hay with Concentrates

Determining Forage Intake

The amount of hay a horse consumes voluntarily depends on forage quality, horse size, and management factors. A meta-analysis of voluntary forage dry matter intake in equines found that forage intake increased when higher quality forages were fed, meaning lower neutral detergent fiber or higher crude protein [20]. The same analysis identified forage type, animal size category, and pasture access as factors influencing intake [20].

For practical purposes, estimate forage intake at 1.5% to 2.5% of body weight on a dry matter basis per day. A study of grazing horses estimated organic matter intake of 1.4% to 2.8% of body weight per day, which is analogous to a dry matter intake of 1.5% to 3.1% of body weight per day [16]. Individual variation is large, so adjust intake based on body condition and observed consumption.

Calculating Concentrate Needs

Concentrates supplement forage when forage alone does not meet energy, protein, or mineral requirements. The amount of concentrate needed depends on the horse's life stage, workload, and the nutrient content of the forage. Use the forage analysis to determine what nutrients the hay provides and what gaps remain.

For adult horses at maintenance on good-quality timothy hay, concentrates may be unnecessary. For growing horses, lactating mares, and performance horses, concentrates provide additional energy and protein. Feed concentrates in meals of no more than 0.5% of body weight per meal to reduce the risk of digestive disturbances. A study of dietary fiber composition found that a single meal of unprocessed barley was sufficient to decrease caecal pH to such an extent that the fiber digestibility of the whole diet was negatively affected [10]. This finding supports feeding concentrates in multiple small meals and maintaining a forage base.

Monitoring Body Condition

Body condition scoring is the primary tool for evaluating whether the ration meets the horse's energy needs. Use a 1 to 9 scale, where 1 is emaciated and 9 is obese. Score the horse monthly and adjust feed amounts accordingly. Horses at a body condition score of 5 have a moderate fat cover and are considered ideal for most purposes. Horses scoring below 4 need more energy, while horses scoring above 6 need less.

Adjusting for Season and Environment

Energy requirements increase in cold weather, when horses use energy to maintain body temperature. Provide additional hay during cold spells. Energy requirements may also increase during periods of heavy exercise or lactation. Adjust concentrate feeding based on observed condition and workload instead of a fixed schedule.

Practical Implementation Steps for Feeding Timothy Hay

Step 1: Test the Hay

Submit a hay sample for laboratory analysis before feeding a new lot. Use a hay probe to collect samples from multiple bales. Combine the samples and submit them to a certified forage testing laboratory. Request analysis of dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, calcium, phosphorus, and nonstructural carbohydrates.

Step 2: Calculate the Ration

Determine the horse's body weight using a weight tape or scale. Estimate daily dry matter intake at 1.5% to 2.5% of body weight. Use the hay analysis to calculate the nutrients provided by the forage. Identify gaps between the hay's nutrient content and the horse's requirements. Add concentrates or supplements to fill the gaps.

Step 3: Introduce Changes Gradually

Changes in forage or concentrate should be introduced over 7 to 14 days to allow the hindgut microbial population to adapt. Sudden changes can cause digestive upset, including colic and laminitis. Mix the new feed with the old feed, gradually increasing the proportion of the new feed.

Step 4: Feed by Weight, Not by Volume

Weigh the hay and concentrate portions instead of estimating by flakes or scoops. Hay bales vary in density, and flakes vary in weight. Use a scale to ensure consistent intake. Adjust portions based on body condition and observed consumption.

Step 5: Provide Fresh Water and Salt

Horses need continuous access to clean, fresh water. Water intake increases with hay consumption and dry matter intake. Provide a salt block or add salt to the ration to meet sodium requirements. Timothy hay may not meet sodium requirements for horses, so salt supplementation is important [3].

Step 6: Monitor and Record

Keep records of hay lots, laboratory analyses, feed amounts, body condition scores, and any health issues. Records help identify patterns and support adjustments over time. Weigh the horse monthly and record body condition scores. Note any changes in appetite, manure consistency, or behavior.

Records and Measurements for Forage Management

Body Weight

Measure body weight monthly using a scale or weight tape. Weight tapes are less accurate than scales but provide a consistent method for tracking trends. Record the weight and date in a feeding log.

Body Condition Score

Score body condition monthly using the 1 to 9 scale. Assess fat cover over the ribs, withers, neck, tailhead, and behind the shoulder. Record the score and any notes about muscle condition or fat distribution.

Hay Intake

Record the amount of hay offered and the amount refused daily. Refusals indicate that the horse is receiving more forage than it needs or that the hay is unpalatable. Adjust the amount offered based on refusals and body condition.

Forage Analysis Results

Keep a file of laboratory analyses for each hay lot. Record the cutting, harvest date, and source. Use the results to compare lots and to formulate rations.

Health Observations

Record any changes in manure consistency, appetite, water intake, or behavior. Note any signs of respiratory distress, such as coughing or nasal discharge, which may be related to hay dust. Record any episodes of colic or laminitis and the circumstances surrounding them.

Common Failure Patterns in Timothy Hay Feeding

Feeding Hay Without Laboratory Analysis

The most common failure is feeding hay without knowing its nutrient content. Timothy hay varies widely in protein, fiber, and mineral content depending on harvest maturity and growing conditions. A study of pregnant mares found timothy hay with 4.1% crude protein, which did not meet crude protein requirements for mares [5]. Feeding such hay without supplementation would result in protein deficiency. Always test hay before feeding.

Overfeeding Concentrates

Owners often overfeed concentrates when hay quality is poor or unknown. Excessive concentrate feeding can cause digestive disturbances and metabolic problems. A study found that a single meal of unprocessed barley decreased caecal pH and negatively affected fiber digestibility of the whole diet [10]. Feed concentrates in small meals and maintain a forage base.

Ignoring Mineral Imbalances

Timothy hay may not meet requirements for copper, zinc, and sodium [3]. Feeding timothy hay without mineral supplementation can lead to trace mineral deficiencies over time. A study of performance horses fed low-zinc and low-copper diets examined the occurrence of white line disease [22]. Provide a balanced mineral supplement to meet trace mineral requirements.

Feeding Moldy or Dusty Hay

Moldy or dusty hay can cause respiratory problems and digestive upset. Hay is a major source of respirable dust and airborne microorganisms in stables and is a relevant risk factor for equine asthma [17]. Inspect hay before feeding and discard any bales with visible mold or excessive dust. Consider soaking or steaming hay for horses with respiratory conditions [4].

Making Sudden Feed Changes

Sudden changes in forage or concentrate can disrupt the hindgut microbial population and cause colic or laminitis. Introduce changes gradually over 7 to 14 days. This is especially important when switching between hay lots or adding concentrates.

Underfeeding Forage

Restricting forage too severely can lead to behavioral problems, gastric ulcers, and other health issues. A study of horse management styles in the UK and Ireland found that horses with more restrictive management, including reduced turn-out time and less access to forage, were more likely to exhibit gastrointestinal issues, lameness issues, handling problems, and antisocial behaviors [12]. Provide a minimum of 1.5% of body weight in forage dry matter per day.

Welfare and Safety Context for Forage Feeding

The Importance of Forage for Equine Welfare

Forage supports natural chewing behavior, gastrointestinal function, and mental well-being. A study of horse management styles found that access to forage was a key factor distinguishing management clusters, and horses with more access to forage had better welfare outcomes [12]. Horses are grazing animals adapted to consume forage for most of the day. Restricting forage can lead to stereotypic behaviors and digestive problems.

Respiratory Health and Hay Dust

Hay dust is a significant risk factor for equine asthma. A study of hay produced on intensively and extensively managed grasslands found that intensively managed, barn-dried hay had the lowest airborne contamination, while extensively managed, field-dried hay had markedly higher particulate matter and microbial load [17]. Selecting low-dust hay and using soaking or steaming can reduce respiratory exposure [4]. Horses with coughing, nasal discharge, or increased respiratory effort should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Biosecurity and Hay Sourcing

Source hay from reputable growers who follow good production practices. Hay can carry weed seeds, molds, and other contaminants. Inspect hay upon delivery and reject bales that are moldy, wet, or contaminated. Store hay in a clean, dry area to prevent spoilage.

Professional Escalation Criteria

Consult a veterinarian or equine nutritionist in the following situations:

• The horse loses or gains weight despite appropriate feed adjustments
• The horse shows signs of colic, laminitis, or other digestive disturbances
• The horse has a diagnosed medical condition that affects feeding, such as equine metabolic syndrome, pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, or equine asthma
• The horse is a growing foal, a lactating mare, or a performance horse with high nutrient demands
• The forage analysis reveals nutrient levels that are difficult to balance with available feeds
• The horse refuses to eat hay or shows signs of choking or difficulty chewing

A veterinarian can diagnose underlying health conditions and refer to a board-certified equine nutritionist for ration formulation. Do not attempt to treat medical conditions with dietary changes alone.

Alternative Forage Options and Comparisons

Timothy Compared with Other Grass Hays

Timothy hay is one of several grass hays available to horse owners. Research comparing timothy with low-alkaloid reed canarygrass hay found that horses fed timothy consumed more hay during the voluntary intake period and that apparent dry matter digestibility was greater for timothy by 9.6% [3]. The same study reported that timothy had a lower crude protein concentration at 14.4% compared with 17.1% for reed canarygrass, but timothy had a more desirable calcium to phosphorus ratio at 1.6 to 1 compared with 0.8 to 1 [3]. These differences matter when selecting a forage for horses with specific mineral or protein needs.

Timothy Compared with Legume Hays

Legume hays such as alfalfa have higher protein and energy digestibility than grass hays. A comparison of short-cutting cycle, high temperature-dried alfalfa with timothy hay in Thoroughbred horses found that the digestibilities of organic matter, energy, and crude protein were significantly higher for alfalfa than for timothy hay [6]. The digestibility coefficients for timothy hay in that study were 0.45 for organic matter, 0.43 for energy, and 0.36 for crude protein, while alfalfa values were 0.63, 0.57, and 0.74 respectively [6]. Alfalfa also has higher calcium content, which can be beneficial for growing horses and lactating mares but may require attention to the calcium to phosphorus ratio.

Timothy Compared with Other Forage Conservation Methods

Haylage and silage are alternatives to hay that may suit some operations. A study of Tifton-85 haylage in Quarter Horse mares found that protein digestibility was higher in the diet with haylage at 675.1 g per kg dry matter compared with hay at 579.1 g per kg dry matter of the same grass [19]. The study recommended that haylage be used starting at 28 days of production [19]. Another study comparing pasture grass, silage, and hay diets in horses found significant differences in fecal microbial composition between the groups [18]. These findings suggest that forage conservation method can influence nutrient availability and hindgut health.

Timothy and Grazing Behavior

Horses on pasture exhibit complex foraging behavior that affects intake and digestion. A study of grazing horses estimated organic matter intake of 1.4% to 2.8% of body weight per day, which is analogous to a dry matter intake of 1.5% to 3.1% of body weight per day [16]. The same study estimated organic matter digestibility ranging from 0.45 to 0.68 [16]. These values are similar to those observed for timothy hay in confinement studies, suggesting that well-managed pasture can provide comparable nutrition to conserved forage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between first-cut and second-cut timothy hay?

First-cut timothy hay is harvested in late spring and tends to be higher in fiber and lower in protein because the grass is more mature. Second-cut hay is harvested later in the season, is leafier, and tends to be higher in protein and lower in fiber. The choice between cuttings depends on the horse's needs. Easy keepers may do well on first-cut hay, while hard keepers and growing horses may benefit from second-cut hay. Laboratory analysis is the only reliable way to compare nutrient content.

How much timothy hay should I feed my horse per day?

Feed timothy hay at 1.5% to 2.5% of body weight on a dry matter basis per day. A 500 kg horse would receive 7.5 to 12.5 kg of hay dry matter daily. Adjust the amount based on body condition score, workload, and the nutrient content of the hay. Horses that maintain a body condition score of 5 on a 1 to 9 scale are receiving adequate energy.

Does soaking timothy hay reduce its nutritional value?

Soaking hay for 30 minutes can reduce concentrations of soluble protein, nonstructural carbohydrates, and potassium [4]. This can be beneficial for horses with metabolic conditions that require low nonstructural carbohydrate intake. However, soaking also removes some minerals and soluble protein, so mineral supplementation may be needed. Steaming hay for 60 minutes did not produce the same nutrient losses in the study cited [4].

Can timothy hay meet all of my horse's nutritional needs?

Timothy hay can meet the energy, protein, and macromineral needs of many adult horses at maintenance, but it may not meet requirements for copper, zinc, and sodium [3]. A study of mature stalled Thoroughbred geldings found that timothy hay met minimum requirements for digestible energy, crude protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and manganese but did not meet requirements for copper, zinc, and sodium [3]. Provide a balanced mineral supplement to fill these gaps.

Is timothy hay suitable for horses with laminitis or insulin dysregulation?

Timothy hay is generally lower in nonstructural carbohydrates than many other forages, but values vary with harvest time and growing conditions. Select timothy hay that has been tested for nonstructural carbohydrates and soak it before feeding to reduce water-soluble carbohydrates [4]. Work with a veterinarian to develop a feeding plan that manages nonstructural carbohydrate intake while meeting protein, vitamin, and mineral requirements.

How should I store timothy hay to maintain its quality?

Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated barn or under cover with good drainage. Keep hay off the ground and away from moisture to prevent mold growth. Stack bales with space between them for air circulation. Inspect stored hay regularly for signs of mold, heating, or rodent damage. Discard any bales that show signs of spoilage.

What should I do if my horse refuses to eat timothy hay?

First, check the hay for mold, dust, or foreign material. Horses may refuse hay that is moldy, dusty, or contaminated. If the hay appears clean, consider that the horse may prefer a different forage type or cutting. Introduce new hay gradually by mixing it with the current hay. If the horse continues to refuse feed or loses weight, consult a veterinarian to rule out dental problems or other health issues.

How do I know if my horse is getting enough protein from timothy hay?

The crude protein content of timothy hay varies

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References and Further Reading

• Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck Veterinary Manual.
• Animal Health and Welfare. World Organisation for Animal Health.
• Voluntary intake and digestibility of reed canarygrass and timothy hay fed to horses.. Journal of animal science, 2006.
• Nutrient content changes from steaming or soaking timothy-alfalfa hay: effects on feed preferences and acute glycemic response in Standardbred racehorses1.. Journal of animal science, 2019.
• Matua bromegrass hay for mares in gestation and lactation.. Journal of animal science, 2002.
• A comparison between the nutritive value of short-cutting cycle, high temperature-dried alfalfa and timothy hay for horses.. Equine veterinary journal, 1992.
• Metabolic response to dietary fibre composition in horses.. Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience, 2016.
• Comparison of in vitro digestibility estimates using the DaisyII incubator with in vivo digestibility estimates in horses.. Journal of animal science, 2010.
• Protein quality and utilization of timothy, oat-supplemented timothy, and alfalfa at differing harvest maturities in exercised Arabian horses.. Journal of animal science, 2011.
• Equine pre-caecal and total tract digestibility of individual carbohydrate fractions and their effect on caecal pH response.. Archives of animal nutrition, 2012.
• Open habitats and species differences shape space use in semi-feral cattle and horses across Danish rewilding sites.. 2026.
• Friends, forage, freedom: A cluster analysis investigating horse management styles and welfare in the UK and Ireland.. 2026.
• Modeling Soluble Protein Fractionation in Feedstuffs in Equine Rations Using Crude Protein and Fiber Composition.. 2026.
• The interplay of habitat quality and temperature shape demographic patterns of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) in North America.. 2026.
• Reproductive Physiology, Genetic Architecture, and Management of Duolang Sheep Under Arid-Zone Production Systems: A Review.. 2026.
• Feed intake, digestibility and passage kinetics in grazing horses.. 2026.
• Airborne dust and microorganisms from hay produced on intensively and extensively managed grasslands in Switzerland.. 2026.
• Effects of Pasture Grass, Silage, and Hay Diet on Equine Fecal Microbiota. Animals, 2021.
• Fermentation pattern of tropical grass haylage and digestibility compared to hay in equine diet. Semina: Ciências Agrárias, 2018.
• What the hay: predicting equine voluntary forage intake using a meta-analysis approach.. Animal, 2024.
• Survey of Feeding Practices, Supplement Use, and Knowledge of Equine Nutrition among a Subpopulation of Horse Owners in New England. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2009.
• Occurrence of white line disease in performance horses fed on low-zinc and low-copper diets. Journal of Equine Science, 1999.
• The measurement of liquid and solid digesta retention in ruminants, equines and rabbits given timothy (Phleum pratense) hay. British Journal of Nutrition, 1982.
• Comparative digestion of timothy (Phleum pratense) fibre by ruminants, equines and rabbits. British Journal of Nutrition, 1982.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Contact a veterinarian for advice about an individual animal.